Tropical Cyclone Jude’s Impact on Southern Africa: Humanitarian Response and Challenges

Tropical Storm Jude affected nearly 340,000 people across Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique, causing significant destruction and displacements. Humanitarian partners are mobilizing resources and coordinating aid to assist affected populations. Key impacts include fatalities, infrastructure damage, and heightened cholera risks in the aftermath.

Tropical Storm Jude impacted Southern Africa between 6 and 16 March 2025, affecting nearly 340,000 individuals across Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique. The storm caused extensive destruction to infrastructure, blocked roads, and displaced thousands, while disrupting access to essential services. Humanitarian partners are actively involved in supporting government-led efforts to respond to the crisis through coordination, resource mobilization, and emergency operations.

In Madagascar, around 15,000 people were affected following the storm’s second landfall on 15 March, primarily in the Atsimo Andrefana Region. The storm resulted in fatalities, significant displacements, and damages to homes and educational institutions, leaving approximately 48,000 students unable to attend school. The cumulative effect of consecutive severe weather events has led to increased accessibility issues, particularly in the Grand Sud region, complicating relief efforts.

Malawi reported nearly 20,650 affected individuals due to the cyclone, with three individuals declared missing. Various districts experienced heavy rainfall, leading to displacement and severe local impacts. Emergency efforts by the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) included mobilizing resources and providing essential food supplies to the displaced population.

In Mozambique, Tropical Storm Jude caused significant flooding, affecting 302,000 people and resulting in fatalities. The storm exacerbated existing vulnerabilities due to previous cyclones and ongoing cholera outbreaks. Efforts are underway to assess damage and coordinate emergency responses, while the Ministry of Health warned of heightened risks associated with the cholera outbreak following the storm.

Humanitarian partners are essential in facilitating coordinated responses across the affected regions. In Madagascar, evacuations were organized, and food and healthcare services were provided. In Malawi, the government has engaged in awareness campaigns and cash assistance efforts, while Mozambique’s response capacities have been stressed by ongoing crises. Immediate financing was initiated through the Central Emergency Response Fund to allow anticipatory actions prior to the storm’s arrival.

Tropical Storm Jude has had a profound impact on Southern Africa, affecting hundreds of thousands and leading to significant infrastructure damage and displacement. The humanitarian response has involved extensive coordination among partners in Madagascar, Malawi, and Mozambique, focusing on providing essential aid and mitigating further risks, particularly from cholera outbreaks. The ongoing efforts highlight the critical need for sustained support in disaster response and recovery efforts across the region.

Original Source: reliefweb.int